The Christmas Maker's Club

“There’s got to be something better than just going home to do homework! Maybe we could. I don’t know, go hang out at your place, Elsa?” Elsa’s face turned pink. “Um… I don’t think my grandmother would like that.

She’s. particular.” Alice, the smallest and most thoughtful of the group, spoke up. “What if we started a club? Like, an after-school club for Christmas? We could meet on Fridays and do something fun.” Betty raised an eyebrow. “Only adults have clubs, don’t they? Like boring book clubs or fancy ones where people drink tea and talk about art.

” “Who says?” Alice said, puffing up her cheeks. “We could have a club for making Christmas things—decorations, gifts, whatever we want. We’d make it our thing.” Betty paused, clearly considering the idea. “Okay, that does sound fun. But where would we meet? My house could work. My mom loves Christmas stuff, and we could use the living room.

Chapter 2: Meeting Miss Ruth The next day, Elsa, Betty, and Alice were buzzing with excitement as they made their way to Miss Ruth’s house. They had decided in their first meeting that Miss Ruth, their creative and friendly neighbor, would be the perfect person to guide their club.

Betty was practically skipping along the sidewalk, her brown hair bouncing with every step. “I just know Miss Ruth is going to love this idea,” she said confidently. “She’s always making things—scarves, decorations, all kinds of stuff. She’ll be perfect!” Alice hugged her coat tightly against the chilly air. “I hope she’ll want to be our president,” she said. “I mean, who doesn’t want to be in charge of a Christmas club?” Elsa, walking a little behind, fiddled with the edge of her knitted scarf. “She’s always been nice to me,” she said softly, though her voice wasn’t as sure as Betty’s. “But what if she thinks our idea is silly?” “It’s not silly!” Betty called over her shoulder. “It’s genius. Let’s just tell her everything we’ve planned, and she’ll say yes for sure.” When they reached Miss Ruth’s house, the warmth from the living room windows seemed to wrap around them even before they knocked. Miss Ruth was sitting by the window, knitting a scarf in soft, wintry colors. She looked up and waved them in with a big smile.

“Hello, my little visitors! What a nice surprise on such a cold day. Come in, come in!” Miss Ruth set her knitting down and gestured for them to sit. The girls took off their coats, and Betty didn’t waste a second.

“Miss Ruth, we started a club!” she declared, standing tall like she was about to make an important announcement. “It’s called the Christmas Makers’ Club, and we want you to be our president.” “Our mission,” Alice chimed in, “is to make Christmas presents for kids at the hospital. You know, the ones who can’t go home for Christmas.” Miss Ruth’s eyes twinkled as she leaned forward. “What a lovely idea! And you’d like me to be your president? That sounds very official.” Betty nodded vigorously.

“You’d be perfect! You’re creative, and you know how to make things.” “And we need help,” Alice added, her round blue eyes wide. “We thought we could make dolls, cards, and decorations, but we don’t really know where to start.” Miss Ruth sat back with a thoughtful look. “Well, I think your idea is wonderful, and I’d be delighted to help. How about this? Come back tomorrow afternoon, and we’ll come up with a plan together. I’ll even bake cookies.

” Elsa, who had been quiet until now, let out a small smile. “Thank you, Miss Ruth. I think this is going to be really special.” As they bundled back into their coats and headed out into the chilly air, Betty threw her arms in the air.

A Visit to the Convalescent Home It was the day after Thanksgiving, and Elsa, Betty, and Alice arrived at Miss Ruth’s house, buzzing with excitement. “Miss Ruth, can we visit the Convalescent Home today?” Betty asked, her cheeks pink from the brisk air.

“School was boring, and I need fresh air—and an adventure!” Alice nodded. “The kids there are amazing. Even when they can’t run around like we do, they’re always so cheerful.” Miss Ruth smiled. “It’s a lovely day for a walk. Elsa, does your grandmother think it’s okay?” Elsa adjusted her scarf nervously. “She said it’s fine if you thought so.” “Well then,” Miss Ruth said. “Let’s pack a lunch first.

” Sarah, the housekeeper, grumbled about “making crumbs,” but soon handed them a straw bag full of sandwiches and cookies. “I know what children like,” she said with a wink. Bundled up in warm coats, the group set off along Berkeley Avenue. The road curved past homes and into the countryside, where tall trees formed arches overhead.

“This feels like an adventure!” Betty said, skipping ahead and rustling through leaves. At Alice’s house, she darted inside to fetch her brother Ben. “He knows all the dogs on this road,” Alice explained. “He’ll make sure we’re safe!” Ben, rolling down his sleeves, joined with a grin. “Let’s go!” he said, swinging the straw bag.

“I know a shortcut through the woods.” When they arrived at the Convalescent Home, a red-brick building surrounded by open fields, they paused to read the sign by the gate: “Visitors Always Welcome.” “Doesn’t that make you feel like they’re excited for us?” Betty said. Inside, a kind nurse led them to the playroom, a bright, airy space filled with children.

Some were on crutches, others in wheelchairs, but their faces were bright with smiles and curiosity. Alice ran to greet a little girl she recognized, while Ben quickly became the center of attention for a group of boys. Elsa hesitated, then wandered to two younger children who grabbed her hands. “Come walk!” they said, tugging her forward. She smiled and led them gently around the room. Betty plopped down with the smallest kids, helping them stack blocks. “They’re just like my baby brother,” she said with a laugh. As they were preparing to leave, Elsa noticed a little girl clutching a battered china doll. Her breath caught—it looked familiar. “What’s her name?” Elsa asked softly. “Dolly,” the child replied proudly. “Would you like to call her Bettina?” Elsa suggested. The girl’s dark eyes lit up. “’Tina,” she repeated. “Dat’s a good name.” Elsa knelt, her heart aching. She knew the doll—it was her own Bettina, which had been given away. Tears stung her eyes, but she smiled. “Take good care of her,” she whispered. The walk home was quieter. Elsa broke the silence. “I want to come back,” she said softly. “The children are so sweet.” “Me too,” Betty said. “It made me feel. different. In a good way.” Ben, usually chatty, added thoughtfully, “I’m glad my legs work like they should. Those boys are so brave.” The shortcut through the woods was beautiful, with golden sunlight streaming through the trees. “This would be perfect for an Easter Club,” Betty said suddenly. “We could decorate eggs here in spring.” Elsa nodded. “And maybe raise money for the kids. They need so much more than just toys.” Miss Ruth carried the now-empty lunch bag and smiled. “You all brought so much joy today. And I think you’re just getting started.

A Change of Plans Miss Ruth’s Friday began with a twist. “I don’t know if I can tolerate the Club meeting today,” Miss Virginia said, adjusting her shawl. “Even the thought of noise is enough to bring on heart trouble.” “Aunt Virginia, the library doors will be closed, and the children will keep their voices down,” Ruth reassured her. “The Club is important to them.” Miss Virginia sighed dramatically. “If only I had a proper nurse,” she lamented. But the decision was made for them when Ben Holt arrived, driving a sleigh pulled by Jerry, his steady brown horse. He rang the doorbell and burst into the hall, cheeks red from the cold. “Miss Ruth, Alice hurt her ankle, and my mom says we should have the meeting at our house.

I brought the sleigh so we can all ride there!” Miss Ruth smiled. “That sounds wonderful, Ben. Let me tell my aunt, and I’ll be right down.” Bundled up, Miss Ruth, Elsa, and Betty climbed into the sleigh. “Jerry’s so steady,” Ruth said as the horse trotted down the snowy road. “He’s the best,” Ben said proudly. “I can take him anywhere.” The ride to the Holt house was magical. Snow blanketed the countryside, and trees glistened in the fading light. Betty hummed Christmas songs, while Elsa, wrapped in a borrowed cape, marveled at how different her days felt now that her grandmother allowed her more freedom. The Holt house was warm and inviting, its windows filled with scarlet geraniums. Mrs.

Holt greeted them, her smile kind and welcoming. “Alice has been waiting for you all,” she said. Inside, Alice sat on a sofa, her ankle resting on an afghan.

“I’m so glad you’re here!” she exclaimed. The Club gathered around, sharing stories from school and their visit to the Convalescent Home. Miss Ruth unpacked fabric. “We can sew doll dresses for Christmas,” she suggested. “I’ll help!” Mrs. Holt said, settling into a chair. Her easy warmth made everyone feel at home, and Elsa admired how lively and loving the Holt family seemed. After sewing, Ben proposed a “show.” With Betty and Elsa’s help, he set up a makeshift stage on the stairs, complete with a pink curtain and red lighting. The audience—Miss Ruth, Mrs. Holt, and Alice—clapped and laughed as Elsa played a demure Puritan maiden, Betty donned a red cape as Little Red Riding Hood, and Ben hilariously portrayed George Washington crossing the Delaware. The final act, “Princess Katrina and the Gray Owl,” featured Elsa in velvet with a stuffed squirrel on her shoulder, while Ben, wrapped in fur, pretended to be a menacing owl. The performance ended in laughter as the props tumbled, and the actors dissolved into giggles. As snow fell heavily outside, Mrs. Holt invited Betty and Elsa to stay overnight. Betty eagerly phoned her mom, who agreed, but Elsa hesitated. “I don’t think my grandmother will let me,” she said softly. Miss Ruth called Mrs. Danforth, but the answer was firm: Elsa needed to come home. “She says you won’t regret it,” Miss Ruth told Elsa gently.

On the ride back, Elsa spotted someone near her house and gasped, “Uncle Ned!” She leapt from the sleigh and into the arms of a tall, broad-shouldered man. “I’m so glad you’re here!” Elsa cried, her voice filled with joy. “I couldn’t miss seeing my favorite niece,” Uncle Ned said, smiling as he introduced himself to Miss Ruth. “You’ve made her so happy,” he added gratefully. Later, Elsa confided in Miss Ruth.

The Secret Plan Elsa practically bounced excitedly as she curled up on the plush rug in Betty’s vibrant room.

Bright strawberry bird figurines perched on a shelf, and the window seat, packed with colourful pillows, created the perfect spot for brainstorming. “We should do something amazing for Miss Ruth this Christmas,” Elsa announced. Betty leaned back, grinning. “Okay, spill the idea!” Elsa clasped her knees. “It was Uncle Ned’s idea! He said we should surprise Miss Ruth by earning some money to go with the dolls we’re donating to the Convalescent Home. Wouldn’t that be perfect?” Alice clapped her hands. “Oh, that’s wonderful! But how will we earn it?” Betty jumped in. “Easy! Mom gives me five cents a day for emptying wastebaskets. Fourteen days until Christmas means seventy cents!” Alice added, “If I wash dishes twice a day, I can earn seventy cents, too.” Elsa’s smile wavered. “I wish I could do chores, but Grandmother doesn’t like me to. She says it’s bad for my hands.” Betty shrugged. “That’s okay. Your Uncle Ned’s letters will help. Didn’t he offer you fifty cents per letter?” Elsa nodded. “Yes, twice a week! That’s a dollar.” “With Ben earning some, we’ll have over three dollars!” Betty declared. ANOTHER SECRET As their plan unfolded, Elsa leaned forward, her eyes twinkling.

“Uncle Ned is also sending the Club something amazing for Christmas, but it’s a secret.” Betty frowned. “That’s not fair! You can’t tease us like that.” Alice smiled. “It’ll be fun to wait and see. Besides, we should figure out something special for Miss Ruth.” When Betty’s mother joined them, she suggested, “Why don’t you each contribute what you can, and we’ll pick out a gift together?” The girls loved the idea. “It’s another surprise!” Elsa giggled. CLUB MEETING SURPRISES By Friday, the Club was buzzing with excitement.

Alice, however, couldn’t join—she was home with a cold. Miss Ruth tried to cheer Elsa and Betty by revealing a new activity: painting paper dolls. When she opened a box filled with elegant paper dolls and their outfits, the girls gasped. “What fun!” Betty exclaimed, twirling in excitement. As they painted, the doorbell rang. Moments later, Ben entered—wearing one of Alice’s old sailor suits, looking utterly ridiculous. “I dressed up to make Alice laugh,” Ben mumbled, blushing.

But the laughter stopped when a small gray squirrel darted out from his blouse. “Ben Holt! Why would you bring a squirrel to the Club?” Betty cried. Ben grinned sheepishly. “I thought it’d be funny.” The squirrel, however, had other plans, scurrying onto the bookcase and chattering loudly. With some walnuts and coaxing, Ben finally managed to recapture it. A LITTLE OLD LADY’S DOLL Once things settled down, Miss Ruth gathered the group by the fire for a promised story. “This is about a little old lady named Miss Phoebe Dean, who cherished her doll, Susie,” Miss Ruth began. She described how Miss Dean, a retired teacher, found comfort in her childhood doll during lonely times. “Susie wasn’t just a doll; she was a reminder of love and joy. Miss Dean even made dresses for her and kept her close on stormy nights,” Miss Ruth said. Elsa’s eyes sparkled. “Miss Dean sounds wonderful.” THE SPARK OF CHRISTMAS The story ended, and the Club members sat in thoughtful silence, the warmth of the fire wrapping around them.

Snow fell gently over Berkeley that Friday morning as Ben Holt guided Jerry, his trusty horse, through the streets.

When Ben spotted Mr. Danforth—Elsa’s tall, distinguished uncle—walking briskly along the sidewalk, he pulled the sleigh to a halt. “Good morning, sir!” Ben called, hopping down. “Can I ask your advice?” Mr. Danforth paused. “Of course, Ben. What’s the matter?” Ben hesitated, clutching the reins. “I’ve decided to run away,” he blurted. “But I promised to take some kids from the Convalescent Home on a sleigh ride at eleven. Could you take them for me?” Mr. Danforth frowned. “Running away? Why?” Ben looked down. “My mom works so hard—paying for coal, food, rent—and I thought if I left, I could send her money. But I don’t want to let the kids down.” Mr. Danforth’s voice softened. “Ben, running away won’t help your mother. You already do so much. Let’s talk this over. May I join you for a ride?” Reluctantly, Ben nodded, and they climbed into the sleigh. As Jerry plodded on, Ben explained how he helped his mother—feeding hens, shoveling snow, and running errands. Mr. Danforth listened closely before saying, “I’ll pay you fifty cents an hour to help with a surprise I’m planning for Elsa’s Club. You can earn money without leaving home.” Ben’s face lit up. “You mean it, sir? That’d be great!” “Absolutely. Let’s talk more at Elsa’s log hut.” By three o’clock, the Club had gathered in Miss Ruth’s cozy living room.

The crackling fire, paints, and paper dolls created a cheerful scene as Betty, Elsa, Alice, and Ben buzzed with excitement. “I brought back the two sets of dolls I painted,” Alice announced. “And I made these,” Ben said, displaying hand-carved, brightly painted tops. “They’re for the Convalescent Home.” Miss Ruth clapped her hands. “Ben, these are wonderful! You’ve all done so much.” As the chatter settled, Miss Ruth began the next part of her story about Miss Dean’s beloved doll, Susie.

The children leaned in, captivated by the tale of how Susie became Miss Dean’s cherished companion. When Miss Ruth finished, Elsa whispered, “Do you still have Susie?” Miss Ruth nodded. “Yes. Would you like to see her?” The children watched eagerly as Miss Ruth retrieved a box. Inside was Susie, dressed in an old-fashioned ball gown with delicate rosebuds. The doll’s porcelain face glowed with charm. “She’s perfect,” Elsa murmured. “She’s beautiful,” Alice added softly. Miss Ruth smiled. “I think Susie needs a new home. What do you think?” Ben spoke first. “Elsa should have her. She’d take care of Susie.” Betty and Alice nodded. “She’d let us play with her too,” Betty said.

“Then it’s settled,” Miss Ruth declared. “Susie will be Elsa’s Christmas surprise, but let’s keep it a secret.” Later that evening, Elsa burst back into the room, her gray eyes shining. “Grandmother says we’re having a Christmas tree at our house! She wants all of you to come—and your families too!” The Club erupted into cheers. Betty spun in a circle, clapping her hands. “A Christmas tree! What fun!” “Hurrah!” shouted Ben, pulling Alice into a quick hug. “Can we help set it up?” “Yes!” Elsa cried. “Grandmother said it would be the best Christmas she’s ever had!” Miss Ruth watched with a smile. The Club had become a tight-knit circle, bound by kindness and the joy of giving. The room glowed with the warmth of the season, promising a Christmas full of love and surprises.

Christmas arrived with magic in the air. Snow sparkled under a bright blue sky, and bells rang out cheerily. The Christmas Makers’ Club was ready for their big day: visiting the Convalescent Home. Ben arrived first, Jerry pulling the polished sleigh. Alice sat beside him, her cheeks rosy. They stopped at the Danforth house, where Elsa and her Uncle Ned joined, followed by Betty, already bubbling with excitement.

The sleigh jingled to Miss Ruth’s house, but they were met with disappointment. “I can’t join you today,” she said apologetically. “Aunt Virginia needs me.” The Club protested in unison. “We can’t do it without you!” Elsa’s voice trembled. “You don’t need me to make this special,” Miss Ruth assured them. “It’s your thoughtfulness that matters most.” Uncle Ned stepped in. “Your president has spoken. Let’s not let her down.” Though reluctant, the Club agreed, and the sleigh jingled off. The Convalescent Home buzzed with excitement. The head nurse greeted them warmly. “The children have been waiting all morning,” she said. Ben and Alice carried in the basket of dolls; Betty and Elsa followed with boxes of toys. Uncle Ned brought out his surprise: gray squirrel-shaped candy boxes. Boys admired their tops and soldiers, while girls hugged their dolls. Elsa spotted a dark-haired girl cradling two dolls—one new, one battered. “What are their names?” Elsa asked softly. “’Tina,” the child said simply, hugging both tightly. Meanwhile, Uncle Ned wandered the room, dropping coins into tiny hands. The nurses followed, retrieving the money to keep it safe. Oblivious, Uncle Ned smiled, moved by the children’s joy. The visit ended with the children singing a Christmas carol in their delicate voices.

As the sleigh jingled away, Elsa waved to the dark-haired girl. “Come back soon!” the child called. That afternoon, the Club gathered at Mrs. Danforth’s for a Christmas tree like no other. The drawing room glowed with candlelight and the tree sparkled with ornaments. Elsa, dressed in her best, felt both excitement and uncertainty. When Ben and Alice arrived with their mother, Mrs. Danforth greeted them warmly. “These are my grandchildren, Alice and Ben,” Mrs. Holt said softly, guiding them forward. “And this is your grandmother.” Ben broke into a wide smile. “Are you really my grandmother?” he asked. “Yes, my dear,” she said, kneeling to hug them both. Alice, shy but glowing, asked, “Can we call you Grandmother Gray?” Mrs.

Danforth laughed, tears in her eyes. “I’d like that very much.” Elsa, watching from the corner, looked unsure. Mrs. Danforth noticed and crossed the room. “Elsa,” she said gently, “you may not be my granddaughter by blood, but you are part of this family.” Elsa’s face lit up with relief, and she hugged Mrs. Danforth. “Thank you,” she whispered. The evening turned lively as Uncle Ned appeared as Gray Owl Santa Claus, complete with flapping wings. Ben, dressed as a squirrel, helped deliver gifts. The room filled with laughter. Alice received a talking doll, and Ben presented Mrs. Danforth with a handmade money box. The Club’s gift to Elsa—Susie, the old-fashioned doll—left her speechless. “This is the best Christmas ever,” she said, clutching Susie close. The final surprise came when Elsa gifted the Club a deed to the log hut. Cheers erupted as the children began planning their next adventure. Uncle Ned knelt beside Elsa. “I have one more surprise,” he said. “The Gray Owl is staying in Berkeley—for good.” “Really?” Elsa’s face shone. “Really,” he said, wrapping her in his gray wings. As laughter filled the room, Elsa felt deep contentment. She had her family, friends, and a future of possibilities. It was the best Christmas of all.

The Moral of the Story and Lessons for Readers At its heart, this story is about kindness, forgiveness, and the joy of helping others.

Every character—whether it’s Elsa, Ben, Alice, or even Mrs. Danforth—shows us that even when life gets tough, we can find happiness by being kind, working together, and never giving up on the people we love. Here are some important lessons for readers to take away: 1.

Giving Is the Best Gift The Christmas Makers’ Club shows that giving to others makes your heart feel fuller than any present ever could. Whether it’s Elsa organizing donations, Ben making toys, or Betty cheering everyone up, the kids prove that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Readers learn that generosity isn’t about how much you have—it’s about how much you care. 2. Forgiveness Brings People Together Mrs. Danforth’s journey from being cold and distant to becoming a loving grandmother teaches us that forgiving someone, even when it’s hard, can heal old wounds. It reminds readers that it’s never too late to say “I’m sorry” or “I forgive you.” Forgiveness isn’t just for the other person—it sets your own heart free, too. 3. Be True to Yourself Elsa shows us how important it is to speak up for what you believe in, even when it feels scary. She finds her voice by standing up for others and staying true to her kind, thoughtful nature. Her story encourages readers to trust their instincts and stay strong in who they are. 4. Teamwork Makes Us Stronger The Christmas Makers’ Club is full of different personalities, but they all work together to bring joy to the children at the Convalescent Home.

They remind us that everyone has something special to offer. When we combine our strengths, we can achieve amazing things! 5. Joy in the Simple Things Ben and Alice don’t need fancy gifts to be happy.

They love their little hut, their handmade toys, and their time spent with friends and family. The story reminds readers that the best moments in life are often the simplest ones—like laughing with friends, baking cookies, or building something with your own two hands. 6. See the World Through Kind Eyes When the kids visit the Convalescent Home, they learn to think about others’ struggles and find ways to make their lives brighter.

Readers are reminded to always look out for those who might need help or a kind word. Empathy—putting yourself in someone else’s shoes—can change the way you see the world. This story encourages readers to be kind, brave, and understanding. It’s about believing in the good inside yourself and sharing it with others. Whether it’s forgiving someone, making a new friend, or simply lending a hand, the lessons in this story show us how even small actions can create big ripples of happiness and love. Remember, being a little spark of kindness can light up the whole world! MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!.